John F. Kennedy’s inaugural speech was very powerful, and is still well known today. Kennedy’s main vision was to create peaceful relationships between America and other countries around the world. Kennedy did not believe that destructive force was the best way to display power. He did not believe that a country displaying civility made it weak. He wanted America to set a good example for the rest of the world, and relieve tensions by pursuing peace and cooperation between all nations. Kennedy wanted to negotiate, or even work alongside other countries in order for the whole world to benefit, rather than destroy it with violence. He realized that the results would not happen overnight, but he wanted to start somewhere. Even though Kennedy’s goal was peace, he made it very clear that America would protect its liberty, no matter the cost. Kennedy wanted his speech to invoke patriotism and responsibility in American citizens. …show more content…
He uses the repetition of “peace” as well as several of its synonyms to emphasize his main goal. Kennedy uses many chiasmi such as “ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country” (Kennedy), and “Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate” (Kennedy). This use of literary devices makes people really ponder his words, and persuades them to agree with him. The use of literary devices also makes the speech sound more poetic and inspiring. Kennedy also writes the speech in a style that makes citizens feel responsible for the future of their country, as well as the world. He emphasizes that it is a group effort, and by giving the people the opportunity to make the change they want to see, his vision is perceived as more valid. Kennedy’s speech was successful in rallying the people together to make a change, and by emphasizing the popular interest of peace, it made it hard for people to oppose